WASHINGTON (AP) — Bobby Wagner is reaching out to the Washington Commanders as they pursue a major milestone in rebuilding their defense.
The six-time All-Pro linebacker has agreed to join the team, according to two people familiar with the deal. A person confirmed it is a one-year contract worth up to $8.5 million with $6 million of guaranteed money.
The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because it had not been announced.
Wagner, who turns 34 this summer, led the NFL with 183 tackles last season. He becomes the focal point of the defense dan quinn And there’s another player the new coach is quite familiar with: Wagner played two seasons for him with the Seattle Seahawks in 2013 and ’14, winning a Super Bowl together in the process.
“Seattle, we’ve done this before,” Wagner posted On social media, reference was made to him leaving the Seahawks in 2022 for one season with the Los Angeles Rams before returning in 2023. “You know what it is. It’s always love. until we meet again. I’m around.”
The signing of Wagner is one of many changes New General Manager Adam Peters Is earning the highest salary cap hit in the league after entering free agency. and also running away after coming back Austin Ekelerveteran backup quarterback marcus mariota, tight end zach ertz and several others, including linebacker Frankie Luvu, safety Jeremy Chinn, center Tyler Biadasz and defensive end Dorance Armstrong.
Quinn’s relationship with Biadasz and Armstrong dates back to his past three seasons as defensive coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys. Ertz was sold to Peters, Quinn & New offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury Plan.
“I really believe these guys are going to have long-term success at this position,” Ertz said on a video call with reporters Tuesday. “I’m super excited to get back into (Kingsbury’s) offense and help this team, help this organization have success right from the start.”
Earlier on Wednesday, the Commanders agreed to a two-year contract with safety and 2022 All-Pro special teams player Jeremy Reaves, a person familiar with the deal told the AP.
In several social media posts, Reeves said he is smiling after getting the new contract. He added: “Commanders fans, I’m glad to be back home!” I’ve got unfinished business!”
Part of that unfinished business is getting back on the field after partially tearing the ACL in his left knee on a punt return on Oct. 5 during Washington’s fifth game last season. He went on injured reserve and did not return.
Reeves is the first player from the previous regime that Peters chose to bring back.
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AP Sports Writer Tim Booth in Seattle contributed to this report.
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